Feature Factories are dangerous things. You might even work in one and don't realize it yet. Here's a test: if your team built something 6 months ago and you've no idea if anyone is using it, or if anyone even finds it valuable, you may well work in a Feature Factory. If a new hotel … Continue reading Want to write better user stories? Stop using “can”.
Disconnecting From Work is a Skill We Need to Rebuild
Almost all software work used to happen in office buildings. Engineers commuted there, booted up their desktop computers, did their work, then turned them off and went home. There was no way to perform work anywhere else because the machinery needed stayed stowed away in company offices, inaccessible from outside. The rise of laptops, VPNs, … Continue reading Disconnecting From Work is a Skill We Need to Rebuild
Software estimation is your most costly activity. Why not reduce it?
If your first reaction to this article's title was to think of other activities in software that are more expensive than estimation, that's ok! There are probably plenty of expensive things you are doing like sending large bags of money to AWS each month. However, the title says "most costly" and not "most expensive". Estimation … Continue reading Software estimation is your most costly activity. Why not reduce it?
Moving from Management to Enablement
What is an "Enabler Manager"? An enabler manager is someone who elevates their team members, empowers and inspires them, and enthusiastically helps them grow their careers. If you ever attend a management training course, you'll likely be told that it's very important to "enable your team". Actionable advice on how exactly to do that, however, … Continue reading Moving from Management to Enablement
Three Terms in Software That We Should Consider Retiring
There are some terms in common use in the software industry that, while originally well-intentioned, have since become damaging rather than useful. "Sprint" Sprints were originally meant to create some focused time for engineers to give them space for concentration and deep work. They are only supposed to happen periodically, and in between less intense … Continue reading Three Terms in Software That We Should Consider Retiring
More Than Coding 